21 Mar When to See a Chiropractor for Headaches
The last remedy you might consider for headache relief is chiropractic therapy, especially when you have debilitating pain affecting your every move. Headaches may come across as an intermittent dull ache or throbbing sharp pain. Whereas migraines are described as feeling more intense with a pulsating sensation. Chiropractic treatment helps chronic pain associated with any level of head pain.
Spinal manipulations, chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy are three popular ways to reduce the number of headaches you experience. The outcome you’re looking for depends on the type of treatment you need. Typically patients turn to a chiropractor for cervicogenic headaches, tension headaches, and migraines. We outline them below for your consideration:
Cervicogenic Headaches
- This type of headache is known for its one-sided pain. It is likely to move from one part of your head to another.
- Same-side arm or shoulder pain is a common side effect as the headache progresses.
This type of injury stems from neck damage. Medications will not stop the migraine or soothe the pain. Instead, a chiropractor would suggest a spinal manipulation to heal surrounding tissue and nerve damage of the cervical spine. We might also ask you to perform deep neck exercises post-therapy to improve muscles and joints further. That’ll support your neck and resolve the cervicogenic headache.
Tension Headaches
Tension headaches are not as rare! Approximately 2 in 3 adults experience them in the U.S., according to the Cleveland Clinic. This type of injury is caused by long-term tension within the neck, shoulders, or head. Over-the-counter medications provide short-term relief, but a chiropractic massage will alleviate soft tissue to promote lasting stress relief and wellness. If you prefer spinal manipulation, we will apply less pressure near your neck to gently stretch out the joints.
Migraines
Migraines are considered a type of headache paired with dizziness and nausea for acute to severe episodes. Like cervicogenic and tension headaches, the source of it stems from neck pain. Unfortunately, research finds chiropractic treatment to be less effective for migraines. A neuromuscular massage or physical therapy are excellent alternatives. We also offer these services at our chiropractics!
If you’re interested in booking a neck adjustment for headaches, give us a call at 310.340.1439.